Hello...Hello...Hello...my time at Echo Conference

I just returned from the 16th annual Echo conference held in Fort Myers, Florida. Overall it was a great experience and opportunity. I met and interacted with people that came from all over the world that had the same focus, to meet the needs of the majority world and fight hunger.

I am still processing all the info I took in. I was amazed that in every session, there was something that could apply to our approach in ministry. I was in my element.


I grew up on a farm in south central Wisconsin. There I have found memories of doing field work, feeding cattle, and most of all enjoying God's creation. I still wish it would have worked out for my dad to remain in the farming business for longer than it did. I am sure that my dad was always a farmer at heart. :)

Years later, I became an avid gardener, loving to get my hands back in the dirt. I began to learn more about plants and started thousands of plants from seed in my basement. I remember working with my dad and trading 'secrets' about gardening. I always dreamed of being 'part of a farm again'. Then came my business and life changed. I had 'no time' for it.

Now, in processing, I just returned from something that stirred up a deep love. Agriculture and plants. I believe it has come full circle. I heard about amazing farming techniques in the tropics. I heard about a missionary that has helped begin the transformation of Niger. Their approach of Farmer's Managed Agroforesty Farming System is truly making a difference. Niger is one of the poorest countries of the world. Food security here is vital.

I heard about weaving Ag development with participation of the community. What a novel idea! It's time to listen to the community in which we work and build off what they know. In my little experience on the field, I am convinced I will always know very little and the community knows a lot.

This is where development starts- Listening...Learning...Sharing